What does ‘bright, indirect light’ even mean?
Let there be light!
It is common knowledge that plants have different requirements of water, soil type, humidity, nutrients and light. In fact more often than overwatering, lack of light or incorrect levels of light kills more plants. So why do plants need light? And what does “bright indirect light” mean anyway? Let’s take a closer look at how to determine the right amount for your plants.
Why plants need light.
In order to grow, bloom and produce seeds, plants require energy. That process is called Photosynthesis where a plant converts light, oxygen and water into carbohydrates. The word photosynthesis is from the Green phōs, "light", and synthesis , "putting together". Without this process energy reserves are depleted, roots rot and this leads to deterioration of the plant.
Where is your window facing?
Light varies in intensity depending on the time of year, and for plants in our homes we need to know the ideal placement. So how far away is light shade or bright, indirect light from room to room?
South-facing windows provide most light - bright sun within 2 to 3 feet of the window. Bright, indirect sunlight - ideal up to 5 feet from the window and light shade up to 8 feet away.
East and west-facing windows have some direct light up to 3 feet and indirect up to 5 feet away; remember an east window will get sun in the morning and a west in the afternoon.
A north-facing window can provide light shade up to 5 feet away.
What does ‘bright, indirect light’ even mean?
Bright, indirect light is the term that brings the most confusion to many plant parents. As a general rule this means a bright room where the sun’s rays don’t touch your plant. This is the ideal location for the majority of tropical plants.
Sometimes it is down to trying out different locations for your plants. Examine them when you water them. If the leaves/growth has a fresh colour and texture, you shouldn’t worry, but if the colours look faded, leaves begin to droop or water is causing the leaves to yellow, it may be time to move your plant.
High light rooms can be warm and reflect light off the walls; this makes the plants dry out faster. Check these more frequently and water when the soil is dry.
How to determine if your plants are not getting enough light:
Staggered and leggy growth
Smaller leaves
Variegation starts to fade
Lower leaves fall off
Yellowing of the leaves
Dark spots
Signs of too much light:
Crisping of the leaves
Wilting plant
Fading colours
Leaves have scorch marks
Drying/falling out leaves